South Jersey Prepares For Nor’easter

A Nor’easteris expected to bring several days of rain and rough surf to the southern part of the state.

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A coastal flood watch is in effect for Ocean County south beginning Thursday. Minor tidal flooding is a concern. Forecasters say one to three inches of rain, gale force winds, and high than usual tides can all spell trouble.

“We are making sure our residents are aware that if they live in areas that could be impacted by tidal flooding later in the week and they should be prepared to move vehicles and to prepare their yards and homes for any flooding that could occur,” said Ed Conover, deputy coordinator for Atlantic County Office of Emergency Management.

Forecasters also say minor roadway flooding is possible during high tide Wednesday afternoon. Conover says that will be a concern for them, especially once rain and tidal waters get heavier.

“It’s going to increase the street flooding and exacerbate the amount of water that remains in the road systems, particularly in the barrier island and mainland area.”

While the storm will be nowhere near as destructive as Sandy, last October’s storm will still have resonating effects. Conover said some of the infrastructure is still not as strong as it was pre-storm, especially in areas that were protected by dunes. "They did their job for the storm but their capacity has been reduced, so they are a little more vulnerable.”

Forecasters are predicting lighter rainfall in northern New Jersey counties.